I think Bortle's slight regression is due to a number of factors. Injuries to his OL and receivers are high on the list. Sloppy footwork could be a contributing factor as well. But in my opinion, the primary reason is that he's devolved from a gunslinging QB to a gun shy QB, due to the number of interceptions he has thrown. This would explain his hesitancy in the pocket, which throws off the timing of the pass routes and gives the db's and lb's an extra half second advantage.


I'd like the coaches to restore his confidence and allow him to make aggressive mistakes if the miscues help his learning process. Eventually, by reviewing game tapes with a competent QB coach, he'll learn to channel his aggressive nature into more intelligent directions.


Yes, Peyton Manning threw 28 interceptions in his rookie season, but he used it as a learning tool which has served him well ever since. The Jags have to be willing to let this young QB do the same.

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